Casablanca is Morocco’s modern economic capital, where Art Deco architecture, bustling markets and Atlantic seascapes meet. The city combines French colonial influences with traditional Moroccan character, creating a lively destination that feels both cosmopolitan and deeply rooted in local culture.
Although Casablanca is younger in appearance than the imperial cities, its history reaches back to the ancient settlement of Anfa and the city has long been an important Atlantic trading port. Cruise ships arrive at Casablanca’s commercial port, close to the city centre and within easy reach of its principal sights. Marrakech is much farther inland, so passengers with only one day in port generally enjoy a fuller experience by exploring Casablanca itself.
Top attractions and sights
The Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca’s defining landmark. Set beside the Atlantic Ocean, it is renowned for its enormous scale, intricate tilework, carved plaster, marble details and elegant minaret. Non-Muslim visitors can enter on organised tours at designated times, making it one of the most memorable cultural experiences in the city.
The old medina offers a contrasting atmosphere, with narrow lanes, small shops and traditional buildings enclosed by historic walls. Nearby, the Place des Nations Unies and Place Mohammed V provide a glimpse of central Casablanca, while the surrounding streets showcase some of the city’s finest Art Deco architecture.
The Quartier Habous, also known as the New Medina, blends Moroccan design with planned early twentieth-century streets. It is a pleasant area for browsing handicrafts, pastries and books. The Royal Palace in the Habous district is not generally open to visitors, but its exterior surroundings are worth seeing.
For a relaxed walk, head towards the Corniche in Ain Diab, where cafés, restaurants and ocean views create a popular seaside setting. The Villa des Arts and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism are also notable cultural stops for visitors interested in modern art and the country’s diverse heritage.
Beaches
Casablanca’s Atlantic coastline is best enjoyed along the Ain Diab Corniche, where several seaside clubs and sandy stretches provide space to relax, swim or watch the sunset. The shore can be lively, particularly at weekends, and Atlantic conditions may be stronger than at Morocco’s more sheltered beach resorts.
For a simple port-day visit, the Corniche is more convenient than travelling far outside the city. Visitors seeking a quieter coastal atmosphere can consider the beaches around Dar Bouazza, west of Casablanca, although travel time depends on traffic.
Local products and shopping
Casablanca is a good place to shop for Moroccan handicrafts, including leather goods, woven baskets, decorative ceramics, embroidered textiles and traditionally patterned lamps. The old medina and Quartier Habous are especially convenient for browsing souvenirs and comparing styles.
Popular edible gifts include Moroccan mint tea, saffron, preserved lemons, dates, almonds and argan oil. Genuine culinary argan oil is intended for food, while cosmetic argan oil is used for skin and hair. Look for clear labelling and buy spices or oils from reputable shops.
Moroccan slippers known as babouches, colourful scarves and small Berber-style rugs also make distinctive souvenirs. Bargaining is customary in many traditional markets, but it is best approached as a friendly exchange rather than an aggressive negotiation.
Food and local cuisine
Casablanca is an excellent place to try Moroccan classics such as tagine, a slow-cooked dish prepared with meat, vegetables, fruit or spices, and couscous, traditionally served with vegetables and meat. Pastilla, a delicate sweet-and-savoury pastry often filled with pigeon or chicken, almonds and spices, is another celebrated Moroccan speciality.
Fresh seafood is widely available in this Atlantic city, particularly in restaurants near the coast and the port area. Harira, a hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas and herbs, is popular throughout Morocco, while zaalouk combines cooked aubergine with tomatoes, garlic and spices.
Finish with Moroccan mint tea, often poured from a height into small glasses, or try chebakia, a sesame-coated pastry flavoured with honey and spices. Fresh orange juice and Moroccan pastries are also easy to find in cafés, markets and traditional food shops.
Tips for cruise passengers
Casablanca’s cruise port is close to the central districts, but passengers should allow time for port formalities and traffic when returning to the ship. Taxis and organised shore excursions are the main options for reaching the city’s attractions. Agree on the fare before travelling when using a taxi, or confirm that the meter is being used where applicable.
A practical one-day itinerary could combine the Hassan II Mosque, the old medina, Place Mohammed V and the Quartier Habous, followed by lunch and a walk along the Ain Diab Corniche. This route offers architecture, history, shopping, food and Atlantic scenery without trying to cover too much ground.
Marrakech is a major Moroccan highlight, but it is inland and considerably farther from Casablanca than the central city sights. A dedicated excursion may be possible with a suitable schedule, yet independent cruise passengers should check the return arrangements carefully and avoid relying on late transport. Dress respectfully when visiting religious or traditional areas, carry small Moroccan dirham notes for modest purchases, and keep valuables secure in crowded markets.
21-day cruise on the Celestyal Discovery to Greece - Turkey - Italy - France - Spain - Gibraltar - Morocco - Portugal
